Manila: Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Thursday defended the arrest of two individuals during the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution. Nartatez emphasized that officers were instructed to maintain maximum tolerance but were required to intervene if assaulted or if public safety was at risk.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez stated, "Our protocols are clear: we exercise maximum tolerance. However, when our personnel are physically assaulted or when the safety of the public is at risk, we must act to restore order," he said in a statement.

During the event, at least three officers sustained minor injuries following alleged assaults by protesters. Two individuals were arrested for allegedly throwing stones and disrupting traffic. These individuals face charges including direct assault, resistance and disobedience to a person in authority, alarm and scandal, and violation of the Public Assembly Act. Police reported that the arrested individuals were part of a group that failed to secure a permit for the activity.

Nartatez also commended PNP personnel for the successful security measures during the event. He noted, "The EDSA anniversary and Trillion Peso March have concluded without any major untoward incident. Overall, the activities were generally peaceful."

The PNP highlighted the orderly conduct of events as a demonstration of cooperation among organizers, participants, and police, ensuring the safety of public gatherings. Nartatez remarked, "This successful collaboration is a testament to our maturity as a nation. We have proven that we can exercise our democratic rights and voice our sentiments while maintaining mutual respect for the law and the safety of our fellow citizens."